Former Ukrainian Defense Minister Mykhailo Fedorov has begun a working visit to Washington to launch a new defense technology investment fund with American partners.
During his trip to the United States capital, Fedorov has scheduled meetings with venture capital funds, entrepreneurs, technology companies, industry experts, and non-governmental organizations. He stated that these potential partners can assist with new initiatives and help strengthen Ukraine against military threats.
The primary focus of the visit is the establishment of a specialized defense technology investment fund. Writing on Telegram, Fedorov explained that the entity will not function as a conventional venture capital fund. Instead of solely financing existing defense technology firms, the project intends to establish new companies built specifically around technologies critically needed on the front lines. Telegram is a widely used messaging platform that serves as a major official communication channel for Ukrainian public figures and government officials.
Fedorov outlined three key technological directions for the initial phase of the fund. The first priority is battlefield robotics, aimed at preserving soldiers' lives and removing human personnel from the most dangerous sectors of the front line. The second focus involves reactive interceptor drones designed to counter new aerial threats, specifically jet-powered Shahed loitering munitions. The third initial track centers on low-cost missiles driven by artificial intelligence capabilities.
Defense technology, commonly referred to as defense tech, encompasses hardware, software, and autonomous systems developed specifically for military applications. Battlefield robotics includes remote-controlled ground vehicles and automated systems designed to conduct reconnaissance, transport supplies, clear landmines, and evacuate wounded personnel without placing troops directly in harm's way. In modern combat, jet-powered Shahed drones represent fast-moving aerial targets that require rapid intercept mechanisms. Artificial intelligence integration in missile guidance allows unmanned systems to process targeting data and navigate contested environments autonomously, reducing reliance on manual human control during electronic interference.
Capital and Battlefield Expertise
Fedorov did not detail the exact composition of the team traveling with him to Washington for the meetings. However, he stated that discussions are underway with potential partners and investors who can assist in executing these projects. He added that the overall mission is to attract international capital and technical expertise so Ukraine can overcome enemy forces in every subsequent technological cycle.
The travel to Washington follows high-level diplomatic contacts in Western Europe. Radio Free Europe / Radio Liberty reporter Alex Raufoglu reported prior to the announcement, citing informed sources, that Fedorov departed for Washington immediately after completing a meeting with Italian Defense Minister Guido Crosetto. Radio Free Europe / Radio Liberty is an international news organization funded by the United States government that reports on political and security developments across Eastern Europe.
Government Reset and Political Friction
Fedorov led the Ministry of Defense from January to July 2026. His tenure ended during a government reset when Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy designated Yevheniy Khmara to perform the duties of defense minister. The Ukrainian parliament, known as the Verkhovna Rada, subsequently voted to confirm Khmara in the cabinet post.
Fedorov's departure from office triggered widespread public protests across Kyiv and several other Ukrainian cities. Explaining the motivation behind the ministerial change, President Zelenskyy stated that the decision arose from an internal conflict between Fedorov and Colonel General Oleksandr Syrskyi, the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine.
The Ministry of Defense oversees Ukraine's military administration, procurement policies, and defense spending, working alongside the military high command. Colonel General Syrskyi serves as top operational commander overseeing army maneuvers, while the Verkhovna Rada holds constitutional authority over ministerial appointments and executive reshuffles in Kyiv.
Zelenskyy stated publicly that he had offered Fedorov four different formats for continued work within the administration. The president remarked that he does not typically meet with individuals four times to offer job positions, but Fedorov turned down all four proposals, calling it the former minister's choice. Fedorov confirmed that he rejected the president's offers, having stated in July before Khmara's confirmation that he would not accept any role other than defense minister.
Future Collaboration Prospects
At the end of August, current Defense Minister Yevheniy Khmara responded to journalists' inquiries regarding whether Fedorov might return to the defense ministry as an advisor or in another capacity. Khmara stated that the two held one meeting in July, during which Khmara proposed finding a model or framework to continue working together on key projects without offering specific job titles. Khmara added that Fedorov had not yet provided feedback on the proposal.
